This month, June 2026, Muharram, the first month of the Islamic calendar, began this year in Saudi Arabia on June 26th. Ashura, the 10th day of Muharram, is very significant for Shia Muslims who observe it as a day of mourning for the martyrdom of Iman Hussein, the grandson of Prophet Muhammad, who was killed along with his family and companions in 680 AD at Karbala in present day Iraq. It is a day of intense mourning for Shia Muslims and symbolizes resistance against injustice. Ashura is marked by various rituals, including mourning gatherings, processions, and reenactments of the events of Karbala. Some use chains or swords to strike their backs or chests to express solidarity with Hussein's suffering and is seen by some as a way to earn salvation. Ashura will be on June 25th, although many Shia in the Gulf countries will follow the Iranian calendar and observe Ashura on June 26th.
Ashura prayer information and different languages

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